Dry Van Freight Basics: A Beginner's Guide

Dry van freight involves transporting goods in fully enclosed trailers.

This method protects shipments from rain, wind, and other outside elements.

Goods shipped this way are usually palletized or boxed and don’t need temperature control.

That makes it an excellent option for hauling non-perishable items across the country.

Freight shipping through dry vans suits many industries due to its simplicity and efficiency.

If it doesn’t require special temperature conditions, dry van transportation is often the go-to choice for everything from household goods to automotive parts.

With these basics under our belt, let’s explore common uses of dry vans next.

Common Uses of Dry Vans

Dry vans are perfect for transporting non-perishable goods.

They carry items that need protection from weather and road conditions.

These trailers are great for shipping furniture, electronics, and boxed or palletized goods.

Companies choose dry vans for their versatility in handling a wide range of freight needs.

They also have lift gates, which help with the loading and unloading process.

This feature makes dry vans popular among businesses shipping large amounts of goods.

Whether it’s clothing, household products, or auto parts, dry vans provide a secure way to get these items to their destination safely and efficiently.

Dry van trailers come in various sizes and types to meet different shipping needs.

Each type offers unique features for transporting freight securely and efficiently.

• General Dry Van (53-foot trucks) – General dry van trailers, often up to 53 feet long, are the standard choice for freight shipping across various industries. These large trucks offer a maximum weight capacity of 42,000 to 45,000 lbs. Their popularity stems from this versatility along with their ability to protect goods from external elements during transport, making them a standard method among many customers with diverse dry van trucking needs.
• Pup Dry Van (28-foot trucks) – Pup dry van trailers, often called 28-foot trucks, are valuable for shipping smaller loads. Measuring 28′ x 8′ x 9′, these compact units make shipping more efficient by fitting into tighter spaces that larger trucks can’t. They handle up to 22,500 pounds of cargo, offering a flexible option for freight shipment needs that don’t require the space of a full-sized trailer. By utilizing pup dry vans in logistics, companies gain significant cost savings and adaptability in managing cargo sizes. This makes it a choice method among competitive rates in the trucking industry for dry van shipments.
• Straight Trucks – Straight trucks offer a unique advantage for dry van freight shipments. These vehicles are built as one continuous unit, making them easier to maneuver in urban areas with tight spaces. They also work well for hauling smaller loads that need quick delivery, often called “hotshot” services. This setup means the cab, cargo area, and all axles form a single chassis.

Choosing dry van freight for shipping ensures extra safety and security for your goods.

This method also opens up many ways to ship different items, making it a smart pick for various needs.

• Increased Protection and Security – Dry van freight basics include top-notch security for your cargo. These trucks can be locked and sealed tightly during the journey, keeping your items safe from theft or tampering. It’s a big reason why many choose dry van shipping services for their valuable shipments.
• Versatility – Dry vans are great for a variety of shipping needs. They can carry almost any dry goods, from boxed clothing to furniture and electronics. This makes them a top choice for businesses looking to move their products across short or long distances. Since they’re enclosed, goods inside stay safe from weather and theft. Their flexibility meets the high demand in the logistics world, making them invaluable in the supply chain process.
• Efficient Loading – Dry van freight shipping has efficient loading and unloading capabilities. Trucks are designed for quick operations, saving time and labor. This speed is crucial for time-sensitive cargo, ensuring goods reach their destination promptly. By optimizing loading techniques, Waggon ensures that each shipment is handled carefully, enhancing overall efficiency without compromising security or timeliness.
• Intermodal Compatibility – This method allows goods to move seamlessly between different transportation modes, like trucks and trains. It taps into the vast resources of the drayage community and utilizes the railroads’ equipment pools. Intermodal transportation shines by offering flexibility and a wide range of benefits. It can be more cost-effective than relying solely on truck transport.

Waggon’s supply chain and logistics services make dry van freight operations smoother and more reliable.

We focus on accuracy, professionalism, and ensuring that each shipment arrives on time.

This dedication boosts the confidence of clients who need to move dry freight securely.

Waggon uses advanced technology to track shipments every step of the way.

Our team works hard to provide additional dry van services that meet unique shipping needs.

Our expertise in logistics plays a big role in making dry van transportation efficient and safe for various types of cargo, including time-sensitive cargo.

Waggon dry van freight services offer a simple, cost-effective solution for transporting goods safely and securely.

With options ranging from general 53-foot vans to smaller pup vans and straight trucks, we help businesses find the perfect fit for their shipping needs.